Nathan Sherer

Nathan Sherer is a Professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, with affiliations in the Bacteriology Department and the UW Carbone Cancer Center. His research integrates live-cell imaging and biochemical approaches to study virus-host interactions, focusing on HIV-1, Hepatitis B virus (HBV), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

• Institution: University of Wisconsin–Madison
• School: School of Medicine and Public Health
• Department: Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology
• Additional Affiliation: UW Carbone Cancer Center

Nathan Sherer earned his BA in Biology from Grinnell College in 1997, followed by a PhD in Microbiology from Yale University in 2006. He completed postdoctoral training at King’s College London before establishing his independent research program at UW-Madison.

Dr. Sherer's research centers on the molecular virology of retroviruses, particularly HIV-1. His lab investigates how viral particles assemble and spread through host cells, with a focus on the post-transcriptional journey of HIV-1 genomic RNAs (gRNAs) from the nucleus to the plasma membrane. They utilize cutting-edge live-cell fluorescence microscopy, genetic manipulations, and biochemical assays to dissect virus-host interactions. Key areas include viral RNA transport, ribosomal frameshifting, virological synapse formation, and the role of host proteins in viral replication. The lab has expanded its scope to include HBV and HPV, exploring mechanisms of genome packaging, capsid trafficking, and viral oncogenesis.

The recent publications highlight a strong emphasis on imaging technologies, RNA biology, and host factor identification. Articles span super-resolution microscopy development, single-cell analysis of viral gene expression, and proteomic mapping of viral RNA interactomes. Collectively, the work reveals sophisticated strategies viruses use to hijack cellular machinery, offering insights for novel antiviral therapies.

Dr. Sherer mentors a dynamic team of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers from programs such as Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Cancer Biology, and Cellular and Molecular Biology. His alumni have pursued successful careers in academia, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical research. While no specific scientific awards are listed, his consistent high-impact publications reflect significant contributions to virology. The lab also benefits from collaborative grants and institutional support, enabling advanced imaging and proteomic studies.

Dr. Sherer leads an active research laboratory with ongoing projects in HIV-1, HBV, and HPV virology. The team employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining molecular biology, imaging, and biochemistry to understand viral replication mechanisms. Lab members include senior scientists, postdocs, and graduate students working on various aspects of viral assembly, RNA regulation, and host interactions.